Rolex at Watches and Wonders 2024: Masters of the Craft
- 9 Apr 2024
Longines is renowned in the luxury watch industry for excellent timepiece accuracy and high-quality craftsmanship. Here's what you should know before you buy.
A brief history of Longines Watches
Derived from the Swiss Les Longines meaning long meadows, Longines pays homage to the first factory site built in Switzerland in 1867 to manufacture the luxury watches we know today.
The Longines brand started in 1832 when Auguste Agassiz and his two partners established the Saint-Imier establishment to make and sell pocket watches. After becoming head of the company and the watches finding success in the United States, Agassiz took on his nephew, Ernest Francillon, to run the company. Here, Francillon worked on ways to improve the manufacturing methods in watchmaking.
While under Agassiz, the brand used common procedures used in watchmaking whereby watchmakers would work at home and supply their products to the trading offices. However, Francillon wondered about how the industrial revolution would impact the manufacturing process so he decided to take all the different stages of watchmaking and bring them all under one roof.
To achieve this, Francillon bought two adjoining pieces of land in 1866 and built his factory which was completed a year later. The factory was built on the bank of the River Suze, known locally as Les Longines', meaning long meadows, and so Francillon adopted this name for his factory.
Francillon then took on Jacques David who helped develop the machines required for perfecting watch manufacturing. Because of his innovation and industrial thinking, Francillion continually expanded the factory until the early 20th Century.
The research into technology at Longines rewarded them with various prizes, the first of which was awarded at the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1867 for its first pocket watch product - the 20A. Throughout the brand's history, technical research has allowed Longines to produce high-precision timekeeping and quality manufacturing.
Due to its precise timekeeping reputation, Longines is the official timekeeper in many sports, including equestrian, horse-racing, Formula 1, alpine skiing competitions and gymnastic competitions. To this day, Longines continues to be a reliable and precise timekeeping brand, not only for sports but for all the masses.
Who owns the Longines brand today?
Longines has been a subsidiary of the Swiss Swatch Group, formerly Socit Suisse de Microlectronique et d'Horlogerie (SMH), since 1983. Founded by Nicholas G Hayek, the Swiss Swatch Group is the world watchmaking leader, with other brands such as ETA, Omega, Harry Winston, Hamilton and more under the company.
The current president of Longines is Matthias Breschan who has previously worked for the Swatch Group sister brands, Hamilton and Rado, for a number of years.
Where are Longines items produced now?
Longines watches are still being made in Switzerland, St-Imier, where they were first produced and have remained there since. They are the only watchmaker to have stayed in their original hometown to this day.
What is in the Longines range?
Longines continues to produce one of the most precise timekeeping watches in the world, but their range also includes sunglasses and straps for watches. The Longines tradition of keeping to quality is evident with their ability to provide original straps for watches so you can keep the authentic look of your watch or you can customise it to your preference.
In 2019, Longines began designing, producing and distributing the new optical and sun eyewear range for men and women. This new range embodies the brand's aesthetic and technological know-how to provide exquisite products. The optical and sunglasses range was developed in compliance with the strictest quality requirements and meticulous attention to detail, much like the production of its watches.
Where can I buy Longines products?
Longines products are widely available both online and in-store“ thanks to the company's selected network of retailers. You can find approved retailers in your country that sell authentic Longines products on their websites. Select countries can also purchase from Longines' online stores. At Chisholm Hunter, we stock a wide range of official Longines products including the high-performance HydroConquest for professional divers; the exquisite La Grande Classique collection; the classically authentic Master collection and the impeccable design of the Spirit watches.
How much do Longines products cost?
As with any luxury watch line, prices are on the higher end however, in relation to the rest of the watch industry, Longine places itself as a more attainable and affordable luxury brand compared to its pricier competitors.
Many high street retailers will have Longines products starting from around the £600 mark for the Conquest or La Grande Classique collections and up to several thousands of pounds for collections with more advanced technology and design.
The technical precision and high-quality build of Longines watches coupled with its devotion to tradition and research have helped place the company as the successful luxury brand it is today.
How can I tell if a Longines product is genuine?
Many Longines watches have very small numbers and markings printed on the dial below the number 6. These small markings show the movement number and plate number, which you'll need a magnifying glass to see. Counterfeit Longines watches usually don't have these markings but the ones that do are often done improperly, with defects and have more scratches on the dial surface.
Another way to find out if your Longines watch is genuine is to check the back of the watch case. A genuine Longines watch will be engraved with the watch brand name, the name of the country the watch was manufactured in and special trademark patterns for the watch brand. An authentic Longines watch case is fine and exquisite with a high finish and consistent assembly. A counterfeit watch will have a rough and imprecise watch case. Usually, letters are engraved on the open position of the case to show the amount of gold plating but counterfeit products will not have this mark. You can also check for the authenticity of your watch by going directly to Longines. Since 1867, Longines has kept a record of every single serial number of its watches so you can receive detailed information about your watch and a certificate of authenticity if it is genuine. Longines serial numbers are found engraved on the back of the watch case and are 5 to 8 digits long. In some cases, the serial number may be found on the movement or inside the watch so you may have to remove the case to see it.
Where can I get my Longines watch appraised?
If you'd like to get an appraisal of your Longines products then look for a local jeweller or watchmaker who offers a valuation service.
Older pieces that are in excellent condition will hold their value the best and holding on to pieces that have complicated mechanical workings will give you the highest resale price.
How do I wear my Longines watch?
The beauty of the Longines collection is that a single watch is enough to lift any outfit. Each of the Longines collections will match the occasion, day and outfit. For formal events, many of the Longines collections provide the simple, minimalistic and elegant watch you need to match your outfit.
For casual wearing, you can wear a watch from any of the collections and match it to your outfit, ensuring your arms have the right amount of luxury with elegant dials, gold or silver accents and a classic strap to elevate your look.
How to clean a Longines watch?
Longines watches have been designed to be durable but once in a while, they can require some cleaning to maintain their sharp and elegant look. It's recommended to use a toothbrush and soapy water to clean the metal bracelets and waterproof casings. Then, rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. Your Longines watch should be looking as good as new.
Think a Longines watch could be for you? Take a look at their collection here today.
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If there is one brand that keeps their cards close to their chest nearing the watch event of the year, it is Rolex. As Watches and Wonders 2024 approaches, the watchmaking brand keep all their latest creations under lock and key. Today, Rolex unleash their designs to the world and what a world to be in. Let’s find out more below!
Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II: Navigating Time Zones
First launched in 1954, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master redefined the world of aviator watches. Constructed with a second hour hand, the Rolex GMT-Master was able to keep time of a second time zone.
Watches and Wonders 2024, showcases Rolex’s remarkable ability to remain true to their heritage while embarking on a journey into the unknown. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II provides more than your typical GMT watch. It evokes intense emotion and connection with your past, present, and future.
With two new designs, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II brings forth a two-tone ceramic bezel with a platinum coating, applied using Physical Vapour Deposition, for easy reading. This Rolex watch is visually appealing but what makes it’s outstanding is the finer details.
Much like a typical GMT watch, these Rolex Oyster models has a second hour hand for tracking a second time zone. However, they also have a unique third hand that works like a compass, pointing to the place where you call home. A personal touch that brings Rolex to the top of the game.
Powered by the signature in-house calibre 3285, a self-winding movement ensures reliability, precision, and convenience. The Calibre 3285 features a self-winding system driven by a Perpetual rotor. Its impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours is made possible by the efficient barrel architecture and the high-performance escapement.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date: Eternal Sophistication
For decades, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date, both 40mm and 36mm, have been the vision for dress watches. Today, they are once again re-imagined into a smooth, elegant design that transcends creative limitations.
Rolex debut their exclusive Ombre dials with the Oyster Day Date 40. Encased in 18ct Everose gold, the dial features a gorgeous slate ombre. Starting light in the centre, the dial fades into a deep black around the edges for a beautiful and striking appearance. A professional oversees the delicate process of applying black lacquer to make these dials with a concentric gradient. A specialist's job is to ensure a harmonious transition from colour to darkness.
There is also a stunning 18ct white gold version of the Day Date 40 with a white Mother of Pearl dial. Taken from the oldest and most noble portion of the oyster shell, this dial has a gorgeous texture that imitates tiny clouds.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day Date 36mm is also being refashioned with a gorgeous blue-green dial adorned with ten baguette cut diamonds. A truly mesmerising combination of colour and luxury.
While recognisable on the wrist of anyone, the Rolex Oyster Day Date models are known for their popularity among politicians and directors making them instantly known as the “President's watch”. A fitting name to pair with the signature President bracelet.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea: Conquering Depths
Being the creators of the Oyster case, Rolex have a long history when it comes to creating diving watches that are designed for exploring the deep sea. In 2008, the Oyster Perpetual Deepsea collection has solidified Rolex as conquerors of the deep blue sea.
This divers' watch is showcased in 18 ct yellow gold for the first time and features a blue ceramic 60-minute graduated Cerachrom bezel insert along with a powdered yellow "DEEPSEA" moniker on a blue lacquer dial.
The Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea is not only unveiling a fun, bold design but is also showcasing a technical innovation from the brand. A The Ringlock system's high-performance compression ring is made of ceramic. This Cerachrom ring is an amazing feat of precision engineering that came about as a result of an innovative production method. The result: compression resistance and anti- deformation properties that further strengthen the water resistance and durability of the timepiece.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller: Reaffirming Elegance
This spring, Rolex introduce two new 18c gold models of the classic Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller. Crafted from 18ct Everose gold and 18ct yellow gold, both watches are equipped with a robust Jubilee braceleted constructed from precious metals.
Both Sky-Dweller watches bracelets are fitted with the Oysterclasp, including ceramic inserts to further strengthen the clasp.
The Perpetual Sky-Dweller, designed for travellers and adventurers, has a dual time zone timekeeping ability with both day and date display. A welcome feature for those trekking their way across continents.
A sleek feature of the Rolex Sky-Dweller is the genius Ring Command system. Connecting the rotating bezel, the winding crown, and the movement to one harmonious machine, this innovative feature allows you to select and set the functions to your liking.
As one of the most luxurious brands in the industry, Rolex is known for their combination of Swiss engineering with classic British style. While I have talked about more than a few of the Rolex releases at Watches and Wonders 2024, they also released new models of their Perpetual 1908, and Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona lines!
Think Rolex could be the one for you? Take a look at our pre-owned collection here today!
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